1971-1973 Mustang

In it's third redesign since introduction the 1971 Mustang followed Ford's previous concept that "bigger is better" and more horsepower was the name of the game. Styling changes typically started 2-3 years before the new model was introduced, so the direction to make the 1971 Mustang bigger was driven by the cubic inch wars that lead to the late 60's Muscle Cars.

Unfortunately this gamble didn't work out so well for Ford. The public and media didn't respond well to the new larger Mustang. Sales dropped and automotive magazines like Car & Driver complained about the new styling, increased weight and lack of visibility from the almost horizontal rear window of the fastback.